South School in Dannevirke holds special Anzac service

South School children sing Sons of Gallipoli during the school's special Anzac service held at the school on the last day of term. Photo/Dave Murdoch

It was an early Anzac celebration for pupils of Dannevirke's South School when they held a special ceremony on the last day of term.

Head boy Oliver Frith and head girl Charlotte Haycock welcomed guests who included army representatives, returned servicemen, South School Board trustees and family members.

Major Craig Dalgleish of the New Zealand Army was again invited to address the gathering as he has for several years.

"It's important to teach children the meaning of Anzac, the spirit of Anzac and the Anzac story is still relevant today."

To bring relevance to the Anzac story Major Dalgleish spoke about New Zealand troops who are serving in Afghanistan today.

He recounted the story of New Zealand Army medic Lance Corporal Jacinda Baker who saved many lives in her time in Afghanistan and also offered comfort to those who suffered the grief and pain of losing comrades. Shortly before she was to return to New Zealand she and two other New Zealand soldiers were killed by a road bomb while out on patrol.

"Corporal Baker was a professional and proud to be a soldier and believed in the Anzac spirit. She believed in the role New Zealand soldiers played in Afghanistan which was to provide security against insurgents.

"The Anzac spirit, regardless of religious beliefs and culture, is very relevant today and continues to be a natural desire to serve and protect. On Anzac Day take time to remember those who have served their country - Lest We Forget."

Wreaths made by the children were then laid by Ria Maniapoto, William Forsyth, Harlow Hetariki-Pinfold and Jennifer Murphy while Tyler Walsh recited the poem Why are they Selling Poppies, Mummy.